Calculate and compare childcare costs in South Africa.
Childcare Cost Calculator
Child Information
Primary Childcare
Average crèche cost in your area
Additional Costs
Petrol, school transport, or taxi costs
If not included in primary care
Diapers, formula, toys, clothes, etc.
Medical aid, doctor visits, vitamins
Swimming, music, sports, etc.
For unexpected childcare needs
Total Monthly Childcare Cost: R0
Annual Cost Summary
Complete the form to see your yearly childcare budget
Childcare Options Comparison
Compare different childcare options available in South Africa
| Childcare Option | Cost Range (Monthly) | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crèche/Daycare | R2,500 - R8,000 | Structured environment, social interaction, educational activities | Fixed hours, exposure to illnesses, waiting lists | Working parents, toddlers & preschoolers |
| Live-in Nanny | R4,000 - R12,000 | 24/7 availability, personalized care, home environment | Higher cost, privacy concerns, employment obligations | Multiple children, irregular work hours |
| Daily Nanny | R3,500 - R8,000 | Flexible hours, one-on-one attention, home care | Need backup care, potential unreliability | Infants, specific care needs |
| Au Pair | R2,000 - R5,000 | Cultural exchange, language learning, lower cost | Temporary arrangement, varying experience levels | School-age children, families wanting cultural exchange |
| Family Member | R500 - R3,000 | Trust, family bonding, flexible arrangements | Potential family tensions, limited availability | Strong family support systems |
| After-school Care | R1,500 - R4,000 | Homework help, structured activities, social interaction | Limited hours, holiday care needed | School-going children with working parents |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- Consider sharing a nanny with another family to reduce costs
- Look for workplace crèches or subsidies
- Negotiate payment plans with childcare providers
- Factor in tax deductions for registered childcare
- Consider family member care with fair compensation
- Join parenting groups for shared resources and advice
Childcare Budget Planner
Plan your childcare budget and explore scenarios
Enter your details to see budget recommendations
💰 Budget Recommendations
Complete the form to see personalized recommendations
South African Childcare Guidelines
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Legal Requirements:
- Crèches must be registered with the Department of Social Development
- Live-in domestic workers must be registered with UIF and receive at least minimum wage
- All childcare workers should have police clearance certificates
- First aid training is recommended for all caregivers
Tax Considerations:
- You may deduct childcare expenses if the provider is registered
- Employer contributions for domestic workers include UIF (1%) and SDL (1%)
- Keep all receipts for tax purposes
- Some medical aids offer childcare benefits
Safety Standards:
- Ensure proper child-to-caregiver ratios (1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers)
- Check for secure premises and safety measures
- Verify emergency procedures and contact protocols
- Ensure age-appropriate facilities and equipment
